The Role of Macrophages in Liver Fibrosis: New Therapeutic Opportunities

Chronic inflammation is the hallmark of fibrotic disorders and is characterized by the activation of immune cells in the damaged tissues. Macrophages have emerged as central players in the fibrotic process since they initiate, sustain and amplify the inflammatory reaction. As regards the liver, distinct populations of phagocytic cells, like Kupffer cells and monocyte-derived macrophages, are indisputably key cells implicated in the pathogenesis of several chronic liver diseases. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the origin, role and functions of macrophages in fibrotic conditions, with a specific focus on liver fibrosis; then, we discuss some innovative therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages in fibrotic liver diseases.